The Five Foundations I Stan

If you're a makeup geek like me, you know that second to skincare a perfect foundation is the key to a flawless base. Here is a list of foundations that have never failed me along with a description as to why I love them. Both high end and drugstore. Hope this helps you with your next foundation splurge!

My skin type - Normal to Dry

xo,

Aliyah

1. MAC Face and Body

If you've ever had a conversation with me about makeup, you know this is the only foundation I talk about regularly, it's that good! Face and Body is a super lightweight foundation that almost gives the look of a BB cream but better. It definitely is buildable so you will get the coverage you desire. I wear it all throughout spring/summer because it brings this beautiful, glowy, and youthful look to the skin. The key to getting this foundation to work is how you apply it. The best way to get this foundation to work its magic is by applying it with your hands...I know, pretty cringy but it makes all the difference. It's a water-based foundation so a sponge will just soak up the product and a brush will make the application streaky. I was one of those people who hated applying foundation with my hands but the results with this foundation make it totally worth it. As you rub it into your skin you'll notice that it'll start to thicken and build coverage, the warmth from your hands really helps do something amazing. It's humidity-proof, waterproof and so comfortable on the skin. It is a very dewy foundation so you will need to lightly set it with a powder. The true definition of "your skin but better."

Coverage: Sheer/Buildable

Finish: Satin/Dewy

My Shade(s) : C6 and C7 (I can use both on its own but I like to mix)

2. Maybelline Fit Me! - Matte and Poreless

Hands down my favorite drugstore foundation! This really does make your skin look airbrushed and poreless. One of my pet peeves with complexion products are those that set on their own, this foundation does not do that. It blends out so easily no matter how long you leave it on your face. I am not at all a matte, full-coverage type of girl and although it's called "matte and poreless" it's really not all that matte. It has a nice semi-matte finish but is still very natural looking. The best part is it's under 10 dollars and much better than many high-end foundations I've tried.

Coverage: Medium

Finish: Semi Matte

My Shade: 330 Toffee Caramel

3. Giorgio Armani - Luminous Silk

Ok, Luminous Silk is that girl! Now, it will cost you an arm and a leg but if you can afford to, it is definitely worth the investment. I am not at all generous with this foundation because it cost so much but you honestly only need the smallest amount for a full face. Out of all the foundations I will mention in this post this one is raved about most by some of the biggest Makeup Artists. For instance, Mario Dedivanovic, Patrick Ta, and Hindash. It has the most beautiful finish, great coverage, and is super lightweight (literally feels like you have nothing on). I would recommend this most to those who have dry skin, those with oily/combination skin can wear this as well with a mattifying primer. I've never experienced it settling into fine lines or creases and lasts all day long. I absolutely love!

Coverage: Medium to Full

Finish: Satin

My Shade: 9

4. MAC Studio Fix Powder

My holy grail powder foundation! This powder has such a smooth and creamy formula, your skin will literally look photoshopped. I wear this foundation mostly during the colder months because I'm honestly so lazy in the winter and I want something quick and easy. I like to use a dome-shaped buffing brush or a large powder brush to apply. It's really good for school or work because it takes no time to put on and your skin will still look so beautiful. I usually do one even layer and that's good enough for me but it can build up to a FULL coverage. It is a matte foundation but because I moisturize well with creams and oils it is more so semi-matte for me. The Studio Fix line by MAC has some of their most iconic products and this powder lives up to why. It is also a multi-use product. You can use it to set your liquid foundation, bronzer, under-eye highlight, touch up throughout the day, etc. This to me is something every makeup lover should have in their kit. A staple product indeed.

Coverage: Medium to Full

Finish: Matte

My Shade: NC45

5. L'Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte

An oldie but a goodie! This foundation is another "matte" foundation that to me is not all that matte. I do moisturize really well before every foundation application so that is likely the reason for this. This product will last all day long regardless of what you're doing. It blends out smoothly and has a pretty natural finish. Those of you with oily skin will love this foundation because it really does block any oil and makes you look super smooth. On the rare occasions that I get oily in my t-zone (mainly during the summer), this foundation definitely helps prevent that from happening. If you're normal to dry like me and you prep correctly with a hydrating primer, I'm sure you'll like it as much as I do. Try this if you're looking for a bomb drugstore foundation.

Coverage: Medium/ Buildable

Finish: Semi Matte/ Matte

My Shade: Classic Tan 109